The STIHL 018 is a low-powered homeowner chainsaw.
It’s a 31.8cc, 1.9 horsepower saw manufactured between 1999 – 2002. It was replaced in 2002 by the Stihl 180 (which is still in production).
Overall, the 018 isn’t a saw to get excited about, but as with most Stihl chainsaws, it’s reliable and will last for decades with the right care and maintenance.
STIHL 018 Chainsaw
The STIHL 018 is best used as a light pruning or limbing chainsaw.
It’s recommended for use with a 12 – 16″ bar, and it’s only 31 ccs, so it’s unsuitable for cutting volumes of firewood. Cutting up branches for firewood would be alright, but nothing too serious.
The 018 is a small saw that’s not worth much these days. New entry-level STIHL saws are reasonably cheap, so people aren’t willing to pay much for these small old saws.
STIHL 018 reviews
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User reviews of the STIHL 018 from FB groups and YouTube videos:
- Dave said, “That is what you call a good chainsaw.”
- Bob said, “Have 2 paid $40 each.”
- Ernie said, “I don’t get my 018 out often, but it always starts immediately when I do.”
- Caleb said, “Nothing special about this saw, but I’d take it if you’re giving it away.”
- Ron said, “I wouldn’t bother trying to repair these saws… you’ll spend more than it’s worth.”
- Phil said, “I had one it was a piece of junk.”
- Oliver said, “My 018 has been reliable. Always starts.”
Dustin said:
I have one. It’s just an 017/170 with a little more power and the tool-less bar adjuster.
To me they’re not really worth much more than the 017s. 🤷🏼♂️
Bobby said:
The main problem with 018s is finding parts to keep them running.
If they need a couple of things done, it’s almost best to pick up a new saw.
And Craig said:
The Stihl 018 is good for what it is.
It’s made for pruning or really light firewood work. Don’t expect to be felling trees and bucking logs with it.
Specs and features
There were two versions of the 018: the base model and the 018 C.
The C stands for Comfort and means that the saw has additional features not found on the base model.
Specs for the 018:
- Displacement: 31.8 cc / 1.95 cu
- Power: 1.4 kW / 1.87 hp
- Weighs 8.6 lbs / 3.9 kg
- Bore: 38 mm
- Stroke: 28 mm
- Nylon mesh air filter
The description in the screenshot above states that it has Electronic Quickstop (electronic ignition and Quickstop chain brake) and an anti-vibration system.
Also, while it can be used with a 12 – 16-inch bar, it’s recommended for use with a 14-inch bar.
What is the difference between the Stihl 018 and the Stihl 018C?
The 018C has the comfort feature ‘Quick Chain Adjuster,’ which allows you to tighten or loosen your chainsaw chain without any tools.
It can be a good feature to have on a small homeowner chainsaw. However, it’s not essential by any means.
Price and parts
What is a STIHL 018 worth?
As with anything, it depends on the condition, location, and time.
You can expect to pay $100 for a model in excellent condition or as little as $20 for one that is past its best.
The Stihl MS180 that replaced the 018 can be bought new for under $250, along with other entry-level models like the MS 170 or MS 162.
See current prices and parts:
- Used 017s – on eBay
- OEM and aftermarket parts – on HL Supply
- Parts and alternative saws – on Amazon
The Stihl Facebook Groups are also a great place to go to ask for specific parts or advice on modifying and repairing Stihl 018 chainsaws.
STIHL 018
The 018 is worth picking up if you see it listed for the right price and in good condition.
Many people do their first carb replacements and other chainsaw repairs on these small saws to learn how everything works. It’s a great way to get started.
The 018 doesn’t have the top-of-the-line features of the pro-Stihl saws, but it is an improvement on the first Stihl chainsaws!
